New Zealand continue to justify their position as sevens favourites with a comfortable 26-12 win over Scotland.

Can anyone stop New Zealand?

Brad Flemming opened the scoring in New Zealand’s victory over Scotland.

Scotland provided little threat in a match where New Zealand sent out a clear message to their rivals – they aim to retain their sevens Commonwealth title.

Amasio Valence was commanding in the midfield, the gold medallist four years ago, provided much of the link play.

The only worry for the Kiwis was the suspected ligament injury to Chris Masoe. He fell awkwardly on his knee during a challenge from Scotland’s Kenny Sinclair.

He is now doubtful for the quarterfinal stages. Scotland meanwhile go into bowl competition, and will be left wondering what might have been after their 0-7 defeat by Canada

Scotland’s Scott Paterson said afterwards: “We knew it was going to be hard today. But we just said win or bust – that’s all it will come down to. We hope we’ve restored some pride.

“We always knew Canada were going to be tough as they were ranked ninth and we were ranked eighth. Yesterday they had better organisation that us, and that’s what it came down to. We picked it up more today. The aim was to make it to the cup round, but that’s out the window now.”

Bruce Reihana was introspective about New Zealand’s chances in the second phase.

He said: “We’ve just got to go out there with a strong game-plan and stick to it and stop giving away all those silly penalties. We’re gonna take it game by game, keep positive, and work or the positive aspects of our game, getting rid of the negatives.”

Wales went down 19-12 to South Africa, and will be New Zealand's opponents in the next stage.